NASA reports positive results from initial open-door testing of its Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (Sofia), a research platform that includes a 19t telescope mounted on a Boeing 747SP (N747NA).
A 4.6m (15ft)-high by 4.3m-wide door on the aft left side of the aircraft that opens in flight to expose the telescope a clear view of the sky between 23° and 58° of elevation had been a key concern among engineers.
The result of two decades of engineering at a cost of more than $500 million in modifications, the 747 includes "ramps" and fairings designed to isolate the telescope from atmospheric buffeting as the former Pan Am and United Airlines aircraft flies at M0.85 and 45,000ft during observations. Modifications were made by L-3 Communications at the company's Waco, Texas facility. Read more...
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